Agricultural News

Members of the Oklahoma FFA welcomed a special guest at their 93rd Annual State FFA Convention held in Oklahoma City recently. National FFA Advisor Dr. Steve Brown made the trip from Indianapolis to attend this week’s event and interact with members and advisors from across the Sooner State. In an interview with Radio Oklahoma Ag Network Farm Director Ron Hays, Brown explained the importance of making such trips as often as possible in order to take a pulse on what is being done well in the organization and in which areas it can do things better. You can listen to Brown’s complete conversation with Hays by clicking or tapping the LISTEN BAR below at the bottom of the page.

Perhaps the most enlightening part of Brown’s visit, was his discussion with a small group of FFA members during an informal roundtable session that gave participants an opportunity to ask Brown questions about the organization and its future.

“The students focused a little more on agricultural issues and FFA topics,” he shared. “They were very interested in things about agriculture - how do we produce enough food and fiber for the next generation; how do we modify our program to make sure students have the right information; and how do we stay ahead of technology as it continues to rapidly change.”

Brown remarked that looking back over history, “change” has had a tremendous impact on our lives in general, but also the ag industry and the way in which it operates. And, he says it is and will continue to do so, underscoring the importance of understanding the gravity of the questions posed by the students. He explained that this issue is something the National FFA Organization has acknowledged and is actively addressing in order to better prepare and equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the rapidly evolving technological landscape of the ag industry. The work being done in that regard, he says, go hand-in-hand with the organization’s ongoing efforts toward growth and inclusivity.

“I think the main thing is we offer opportunities for students and we engage those students - and not just those students that are highly energetic,” he said, “but make sure we engage all students in a meaningful way - with a purpose so they learn something and go home with something of value.”

Fortunately, Brown says that job is made easy by the students because they already know and understand the employment opportunities that exist in the ag industry. According to him, members of the organization view the FFA as a stepping stone to future success.

“We have a lot of great young people who are willing to step up and do the things necessary and willing to participate and be a part in advancing society,” Brown said. “FFA provides members hope and leaves a legacy for the future.”

Listen to Dr. Brown's complete conversation with Hays by clicking or tapping the LISTEN BAR below.